Diriyah is engineered as an immersive first “touchpoint” for visitors to Saudi Arabia, putting history and culture front and center. While still a work in progress, it is already a place that reflects the future of destination tourism spelled out in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. With enforced building codes dictated by the original Najdi villages of the region, it also serves as a more relaxed alternative to Riyadh’s futuristic downtown core.

The overarching architectural design of the area pays tribute to an era when the Najdi village thrived in this location and expanded into the first Saudi capital during the 18^th century.

Today, Bab Sahman, A Luxury Collection Hotel, is up and running as Diriayh’s cornerstone property, setting the tone for branded 5-star hotels and residences that will open between 2026 and 2030. It is visually inspired by the Najid architectural style originating in 400 A.D., as well as Al Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 18^th century and located a five-minute drive from the hotel’s front door.

© Elyse Glickman

While STUDIOI led Bab Samhan’s overall architectural concept and construction, Andrea Marenco Architecture, noted for its niche in creating heritage interiors and exteriors, created both a sense of place and a perfect balance of history and the needs of the experienced modern traveler.

Capsule Arts Diriyah curated and designed interior art, integrating local crafts, traditional patterns and materials. All worked closely with Saudi Ministry of Culture to create a cohesive whole that functions as a village within Diriyah, which currently includes Al Turaif, several art and history museums, and restaurant/retail destination Bujairi Terrace.

© Elyse Glickman

Each of Bab Samhan’s 134 rooms is one-of-a-kind thanks to architectural details like pillars in some rooms and the placement of tarma and furjat windows in others. Rooms are appointed with Frette Italian sheets, premium bedding and a pillow menu; complimentary stocked minibar with many locally made snacks and drinks, espresso maker and electric kettle; and complimentary cribs or infant beds upon request. A collaboration with Assouline Books, whose titles can be found in public and private areas, ties the property together visually with a touch of international sophistication.

Bab Samhan’s three in-house dining options combine Saudi, Najid and international culinary influences, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish itself as an inviting travel destination. In addition to casual lunch and dinner items, Medheef presents a breakfast/brunch buffet and à la carte menu with fresh takes on shakshuka, savory salads and sides. Samhan Lounge, adjoining the lobby, is a cozy yet elegant meet-up spot brewing Arabian- and Western-style coffees, teas, pastries and sandwiches. Jareed Samhan offers traditional Najid recipes in a fine-dining context.

© Elyse Glickman

Taleed by Michael Mina, Bab Samhan’s flagship destination restaurant, is noteworthy as it marks the globally renowned chef’s first white tablecloth restaurant in the Middle East. Mina taps into his own Egyptian roots, pan-Middle East preparations and carefully selected artisanal ingredients to create colorful menus that include some of his most requested signature items (tuna falafel, slow-roasted lamb and a mixed kebab platter); delicious new inventions (smoked Dukkah Waldorf salad, Kataifi-wrapped tiger prawns, Za’atar-roasted eggplant, phyllo-crusted Dover sole); and vibrant zero-proof cocktails in tune with the international trend of embracing alcohol-free indulgences.

© Elyse Glickman

While the property’s Nafel Al Wadi Spa is relatively small in size, it excels with decorative and functional details that bring local flavor to its indoor and outdoor waiting areas; lockers; water features (hammam, steam and sauna areas); and climate-controlled indoor pool and Jacuzzi area. Like the rest of the hotel, service is impeccable and warm. The principal product lines used in treatments include AMRA and Omorovicza, and the most popular signature wellness experiences include the Pearl & Rose Oud Hammam Journey Signature Treatment, AMRA for Men Hammam Journey and the Blue Diamond Skin Therapy facial.

Bab Samhan, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah

7628 King Faisal Ibn Abd Al Aziz Road
Riyadh 13712, Saudi Arabia
tel 966 11 429 0300